According to the WEF report, the combination of AI with electronic monitoring systems is significantly improving fisheries enforcement, strengthening the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This technological integration makes it possible to detect suspicious activity patterns more quickly and accurately, supporting authorities and international organisations in taking effective action.

The WEF also notes that AI-based models can track supply chains of species such as tuna in real time, providing a precise overview of catches, transport and processing. According to the report, this digital traceability reduces both unreported catches and economic losses across the value chain, promoting more efficient and transparent fishing practices.

Another key aspect identified by the WEF is AI’s contribution to the identification of vulnerable species and the optimisation of fishing effort, while respecting sustainability limits for fish stocks. Advanced algorithms are able to analyse large volumes of biological and environmental data, such as population levels, ocean conditions and migratory patterns, helping to define catch limits and determine the opening and closing of fishing seasons.

The report emphasises that these technological solutions do not replace the role of fishing communities or regulatory institutions, but instead offer complementary tools to strengthen evidence-based fisheries management. When implemented responsibly, AI has the potential to align economic, social and environmental objectives within the fisheries sector.

Experts consulted by the WEF point out that the adoption of AI in fisheries management can also have positive impacts on global food security, by ensuring that marine resources are exploited sustainably and securing a stable supply of animal protein for millions of people worldwide.

AI in fisheries and sustainable ocean governance

As ocean digitalisation progresses, initiatives such as those described by the WEF place AI at the centre of a new phase of marine governance, where technology and sustainability go hand in hand to address complex challenges such as overfishing, habitat degradation and pressure on essential resources.

In this context of rapid technological evolution applied to ocean governance, the debate on the role of artificial intelligence in sustainable fisheries management is gaining increasing relevance. This reflection will also be highlighted at Blue Wink-E 2026 | Ocean AI Futures, taking place on 20 March at the Porto Cruise Terminal, where experts, decision-makers and leaders from the blue economy ecosystem will gather to discuss how AI and digital transformation are shaping the future of the ocean economy.